Responsible tourism

Responsible tourism: Stand up paddleboard vacation in Norway

Environment

As a lifelong surfer and experienced freediver our founder is very much aware of the impact modern man and tourism has upon the marine environment and is dedicated to ensuring that all our activities have an absolute minimal impact upon our area of operations and where possible, a positive one.Our area of operations for our expeditions are mainly in Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO world heritage site).We communicate with the local authorities and are aware and up to date of all local and national environmental policies.By it's very nature, our stand up paddle tours have a very low impact on the environment. Our groups are kept small (Max 12 guests), we are quiet, use no petrochemicals or detergents and we mainly make use of the provided compost toilets at camping areas along the fjord. When leaving a site we always clear the area and if rubbish is found that is not ours, we will also clear that where possible.Dolphins ('Nise' – Harbour porpoise) are common in Sognefjord and we have a 'no approach' policy. Rather we stop paddling and let them come to us if they are so inclined.

Community

We consider our business to be a social entrepreneurial venture in that our inclusive policy is not compromised by our financial growth.We work closely with child welfare organisations within Norway and often provides free instruction/day trips for children experiencing difficulties (13-18 years old) and employees within this system throughout the summer months.Although we mainly try to target our charitable work towards children, we do have a policy of offering discounts to groups if they demonstrate that they are of a social or supportive nature or affiliated with associations of a charitable or supportive nature.Example: In 2016 we gave a 35% discount on 3 courses to a group recovering from drug dependency and also 35% discount on 3 courses to a group supporting people affected by tunnel blindness (Retinitis Pigmentosa Foreningen).We support the local community school, on occasion offering free instruction and use of equipment and for the local town's festival week we supply our services and equipment to inspire children to explore and take an interest in the marine environment.